Summer Events in East Atlanta: A Guide to Festivals and Activities

things to do east of atlanta this summer

Looking for some exciting summer events in East Atlanta? 

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Explore Georgia, from the bustling city of Atlanta to historic small towns like Lawrenceville, Madison, Grayson, Monroe, Winder, and Snellville,.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy.!

Here’s a guide to the top festivals and activities happening in East Atlanta, Georgia this summer.

Atlanta | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Atlanta: The hub of cultural and social activity in the Southeast, Atlanta is hosting a variety of events this summer. 

Don’t miss the Atlanta Jazz Festival, the Peachtree Road Race, or the Atlanta Summer Beer Fest.

Here are some of the top events happening in Atlanta:

  • Atlanta Food and Wine Festival  | June 2-5, 2023

The Atlanta Food and Wine Festival is a culinary experience like no other. 

This event brings together chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists from around the country for a weekend of food and drink. 

Attendees can sample dishes from over 150 chefs and taste wines from over 250 wineries. 

There are also cooking demonstrations, tastings, and seminars to enjoy.

  • Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music FestivalJune 17-19, 2023

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. 

The Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival is a celebration of African American culture and heritage. 

The festival features a parade, live music, food, and vendors selling arts and crafts. 

This year’s festival will take place in the historic West End neighborhood.

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

  • Atlanta Jazz Festival | June 24-26, 2023

The Atlanta Jazz Festival is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country. 

This year’s festival will feature over 20 artists performing on multiple stages in Piedmont Park. 

In addition to the music, there will be food vendors, arts and crafts, and a kidzone for families.

  • Peachtree Road Race | July 4, 2023

The Peachtree Road Race is a 10K race that takes place every July 4th in Atlanta

The race starts in Buckhead and finishes in Midtown, with over 60,000 runners participating. 

Even if you’re not a runner, it’s still a fun event to watch, with lots of spectators cheering on the runners along the route.

  • Atlanta Ice Cream Festival | July 23, 2023

The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is a sweet treat for all ages. 

This festival celebrates all things ice cream, with vendors offering a wide variety of flavors and styles. 

There will also be music, games, and activities for kids.

  • Dragon Con | September 1-4, 2023

Dragon Con is one of the largest pop culture conventions in the country, attracting over 80,000 attendees each year. 

The event features panels, workshops, and exhibits on science fiction, fantasy, gaming, comics, and more. 

There are also costume contests, parades, and parties for attendees to enjoy.

Visit discoveratlanta.com for a more complete list of Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Lawrenceville | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Located northeast of Atlanta, Lawrenceville is hosting a weekly farmers market. 

The Lawrenceville Food and Beer Festival, and the Gwinnett Beer Fest, making it a great destination for foodies and craft beer enthusiasts.

Here are some of the top events taking place in Lawrenceville’s historic downtown district:

  • Live in the DTL Summer Concert Series Various Dates in June and July   

 

This free concert series takes place on select Friday nights in the historic downtown square of Lawrenceville and features a lineup of local and regional musicians. 

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and relax under the stars while listening to live music. 

The Live in the DTL concert series is a great way to experience the vibrant local music scene and enjoy the charming ambiance of Lawrenceville’s downtown area.

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

  • Rock’n Ribville BBQ Festival | May 14-15, 2023

The Rock’n Ribville BBQ Festival is a two-day event that features live music, barbecue competitions, and food vendors. 

The festival takes place on the Lawrenceville Lawn and is family-friendly, with a kidzone and activities for children.

  • National Night Out | August 2, 2023

National Night Out is an annual event that promotes community safety and police-community partnerships. 

The event takes place on the Lawrenceville Lawn and features activities for children, safety demonstrations, and free food and drinks.

  • Lawrenceville Ghost Tours | Fridays and Saturdays in September and October

The Lawrenceville Ghost Tours are a spooky and fun way to learn about the city’s history and folklore. 

The tours take visitors on a guided walking tour of downtown Lawrenceville, with stops at some of the city’s most haunted sites.

  • Gwinnett Beer Fest | October 22, 2023

The Gwinnett Beer Fest is a popular annual event that features over 150 beers from around the world. 

The festival takes place on the Lawrenceville Lawn and also includes food vendors and live music.

Visit downtownlawrencevillega.com for a complete list of Lawrenceville events, Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer.

Madison | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Madison, Georgia is hosting a variety of events this summer, including the Madison Fest, the Madison Antiques Show and Sale, and the Madison Chamber Music Festival.

Here are some of the top events happening in Madison:

Madison in May Spring Tour of Homes | May 6-7, 2023

The Madison in May Spring Tour of Homes is a two-day event that allows visitors to tour some of the city’s most beautiful homes and gardens. 

The event also includes live music, food, and arts and crafts vendors. 

Tickets can be purchased in advance online.

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Madison Farmers Market | Saturdays, May-October

The Madison Farmers Market is a weekly market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. 

It takes place every Saturday from May to October in Town Park.

Madison Fest | June 4-5, 2023

Madison Fest is an annual event that features a variety of activities for the whole family, including live music, food vendors, and a car show. 

The festival takes place in Downtown Madison and is a great opportunity to explore the historic town.

Madison Chamber Music Festival | June 17-19, 2023

The Madison Chamber Music Festival is an annual event that features a series of chamber music concerts in historic venues throughout Madison

The festival attracts musicians and music enthusiasts from around the world.

Madison Antiques Show and Sale | July 15-17, 2023

The Madison Antiques Show and Sale is an annual event that features over 30 antiques dealers showcasing their collections. 

The event takes place in the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center and is a great opportunity to explore the historic building and shop for unique finds.

Madison in Motion 5K | August 13, 2023

The Madison in Motion 5K is a race that takes runners and walkers through the historic streets of Madison

The event raises funds for local nonprofits and is a great way to get active and support the community.

Madison’s Annual Labor Day Weekend | September 2-4, 2023  

Madison’s Annual Labor Day Weekend is a three-day event that features a variety of activities, including live music, food vendors, and a parade. 

The event takes place in Downtown Madison and is a beloved tradition for the community.

Visit madisonga.com for a more complete list of events happening in Madison, Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer.

Grayson | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Head to Grayson, Georgia for the Grayson Blues and Brews Festival, a one-day event featuring live blues music, craft beer, and food vendors.

Here are some of the top events happening in Grayson:

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Grayson Blues and Brews Festival | June 4, 2023

The Grayson Blues and Brews Festival features live blues music, craft beer, and food vendors. 

The event takes place in Grayson City Park and is family-friendly, with a kidzone and activities for children.

Grayson Farmers Market | Every Wednesday, May-September

The Grayson Farmers Market is a weekly market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. 

It takes place every Wednesday from May to September in Grayson City Park.

Grayson Cinema on the Green | Various Dates in June and July

Grayson Cinema on the Green is a free outdoor movie series featuring family-friendly films. The movies are shown on a big screen in Grayson City Park.

Grayson Day | August 20, 2023

Grayson Day is an annual community event that includes live music, food vendors, crafts, and games. 

The event takes place in Grayson City Park and is a great opportunity to meet local businesses and community members.

Grayson Moonlight Run | September 9, 2023

The Grayson Moonlight Run is a 5K race that takes place at night. 

Participants are encouraged to wear glow-in-the-dark accessories and run or walk the course under the moonlight. 

The race starts and finishes at Grayson City Park.

Visit cityofgrayson.org for a more complete list of events happening in Grayson, Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer.

Duluth | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Duluth, Georgia is hosting a variety of events this summer, including the Duluth Art Walk, the Duluth Fall Festival, and the Duluth Farmers Market. 

Making it a hub for arts and culture in the region. 

Duluth also offers the annual Barefoot in the Park festival, which showcases local artists and performers in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Here are some of the top events happening in Duluth:

Duluth Farmers Market | Saturdays, April-October

The Duluth Farmers Market is a weekly market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. 

It takes place every Saturday from April to October in Downtown Duluth.

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Food Truck Fridays | Fridays, June-August

Food Truck Fridays is a weekly event that features a variety of food trucks and vendors in Downtown Duluth

Attendees can enjoy live music and try different cuisines from around the world.

Summer Stage Concerts | Various Dates in June and July

The City of Duluth hosts a Summer Stage Concert series featuring free outdoor concerts with a variety of musical genres. 

Concerts take place in Parsons Alley and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.

Duluth Arts Festival | August 27-28, 2023

The Duluth Arts Festival is an annual event that features over 100 artists showcasing their work. 

The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and interactive art experiences for attendees of all ages.

Barefoot in the Park | September 10-11, 2023

Barefoot in the Park is an annual arts festival that takes place in Duluth Town Green. 

The festival features a variety of artists and vendors showcasing their work, as well as live music, food trucks, and activities for children.

Duluth Fall Festival | September 24-25, 2023

The Duluth Fall Festival is one of the largest festivals in the Southeast, featuring over 375 arts and crafts vendors, live music, a parade, and a carnival. 

The festival takes place in Downtown Duluth and is a beloved annual tradition for the community.

Visit duluthga.net for a more complete list of events happening in Duluth, Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer.

Monroe | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Monroe, Georgia is hosting a weekly farmers market, a Fourth of July celebration with live music and fireworks, and the Walton County Fair. 

Where you can find carnival rides, fair food, and live entertainment.

Here are some of the top events happening in Monroe:

Monroe Farmers Market | Every Saturday, June-September

The Monroe Farmers Market is a weekly market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. 

It takes place in downtown Monroe every Saturday from June to September.

Summer Concert Series | Various Dates in June and July

The City of Monroe hosts a Summer Concert Series featuring free outdoor concerts with a variety of musical genres. 

Concerts take place in Downtown Monroe and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.

Monroe Downtown Cinema | Various Dates in June and July

The Monroe Downtown Cinema is a free outdoor movie series featuring family-friendly films. 

The movies are shown on a big screen in the historic district of downtown Monroe.

Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Monroe Independence Day Celebration | July 3, 2023

The Monroe Independence Day Celebration is an annual event that includes a parade, live music, food vendors, and a fireworks show. 

The event takes place in Downtown Monroe.

Walton County Fair and Expo | September 22-25, 2023

The Walton County Fair and Expo is a four-day event that features carnival rides, games, livestock exhibits, live music, and food vendors. 

The fair takes place at the Walton County Fairgrounds in Monroe.

Visit monroedowntown.com for a more complete list of events in Monroe, Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer.

Snellville | Top 8 Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer

Located northeast of Atlanta, Snellville, GA has plenty of exciting events and activities planned for this summer.

Including a weekly Summer Concert Series, a weekly Farmers Market, and the annual Snellville Days Festival, making it a perfect destination for families and music lovers alike.

Here are some of the top events happening in Snellville:

Snellville Farmers Market | Saturdays, June-September

The Snellville Farmers Market is a weekly market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. 

It takes place every Saturday from June to September in the Towne Green.

Summer Concert Series | Fridays, June-July

The Summer Concert Series is a weekly event that features live music in the Towne Green. 

The series runs every Friday from June to July and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.

Movies on the Green | Saturdays, June-July

Movies on the Green is a weekly event that features family-friendly movies shown on a large outdoor screen in the Towne Green. 

The event takes place every Saturday from June to July and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.

Snellville Days Festival | September 17-18, 2023

Snellville Days is an annual festival that features live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for all ages. 

The festival takes place in the Towne Green and is a beloved tradition for the community.

ArtSplash | August 6, 2023

ArtSplash is an annual event that celebrates the arts in Snellville

The event features a variety of artists showcasing their work, as well as live music, food vendors, and activities for children. 

ArtSplash takes place in Briscoe Park.

Snellville Farmers Market Fall Festival | October 1, 2023

The Snellville Farmers Market Fall Festival is a special event that features live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for all ages. 

The festival takes place in the Towne Green and is a great opportunity to stock up on fall produce and handmade goods.

Visit snellville.org for a more complete list of events happening in Snellville, Things to do East of Atlanta this Summer.

Georgia is a wonderful place to live with a diverse range of events and activities happening throughout the state this summer. 

From the bustling streets of Atlanta to the historic towns of Madison, Grayson, Lawrenceville, Monroe, Duluth and Snellville, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

Whether you’re interested in live music, food festivals, sporting events, or arts and crafts, Georgia has it all. 

With its mild climate, beautiful landscapes, and friendly communities, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to call Georgia home. 

From the mountains to the coast, Georgia offers a rich cultural heritage, world-class entertainment, and endless opportunities for adventure.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Get Curated Post Updates!

Sign up for my newsletter to see new photos, tips, and blog posts.